When To Have Your Septic Tank Cleaned
You probably know you need to have your septic tank cleaned out on a regular schedule to keep it working properly. You need to consider the size of the tank along with the number of people in your family to determine the frequency, or you can have your system inspected annually to look for signs of trouble and measure the level of waste inside the tank. However, there are additional times when an extra service call for cleaning may be needed. Here's a look at some situations which may require you to have your tank cleaned.
Flooding
If your property is under water because of a flood, the swirling dirt, debris, and water could affect your septic system. The drainfield won't be able to work as it should and mud may work its way into your septic tank. It's a good idea to at least have your septic system inspected after the floodwaters recede. However, you don't want to have your tank pumped until the water table has fallen to its original position. If the water level is high, your septic tank can pop out of position if it is empty. Instead, wait until the soil has dried out, then have a contractor check for soil and other debris in the tank, pipes, and baffles. It may be …show more content…
If the problem is in the baffles or from a tank that is too full, pumping out the tank may solve the problem. However, if sewage is backing up into your yard or your home because of problems with the drainfield, then pumping out the tank will only be a temporary fix that could buy you enough time to have work done on the drainfield. If the exit from the septic tank is completely blocked, the tank will fill up quickly since no water will drain out. However, if your system is only partially clogged, pumping the tank may give you enough time to consider all your options and prepare for the expense of drainfield
You probably know you need to have your septic tank cleaned out on a regular schedule to keep it working properly. You need to consider the size of the tank along with the number of people in your family to determine the frequency, or you can have your system inspected annually to look for signs of trouble and measure the level of waste inside the tank. However, there are additional times when an extra service call for cleaning may be needed. Here's a look at some situations which may require you to have your tank cleaned.
Flooding
If your property is under water because of a flood, the swirling dirt, debris, and water could affect your septic system. The drainfield won't be able to work as it should and mud may work its way into your septic tank. It's a good idea to at least have your septic system inspected after the floodwaters recede. However, you don't want to have your tank pumped until the water table has fallen to its original position. If the water level is high, your septic tank can pop out of position if it is empty. Instead, wait until the soil has dried out, then have a contractor check for soil and other debris in the tank, pipes, and baffles. It may be …show more content…
If the problem is in the baffles or from a tank that is too full, pumping out the tank may solve the problem. However, if sewage is backing up into your yard or your home because of problems with the drainfield, then pumping out the tank will only be a temporary fix that could buy you enough time to have work done on the drainfield. If the exit from the septic tank is completely blocked, the tank will fill up quickly since no water will drain out. However, if your system is only partially clogged, pumping the tank may give you enough time to consider all your options and prepare for the expense of drainfield